Grand Hotel Parker's

Naples is probably best known for its thrillingly chaotic urbanity, but the Grand Hotel Parker's belongs to another side of the city — the side exemplified by the graceful curve of the waterfront, the splendid architectural treasures, and the hilly neighborhood slopes, a bit like stadium seating for the blue Mediterranean stage-set to the south. 

The Grand Hotel Parker’s has overlooked all this splendid clamor since 1870, perched prominently on the Corso Vittorio Emanuele above palm trees and rooftops. Rooms and suites are traditionally stately and decorated with Empire-style antiques, and many have stunning views of the harbor in the distance. Bathrooms are masterpieces in Italian marble. Eight suites enjoy a two-story configuration, making them feel almost like complete apartments, perfect for longer visits. Public spaces are similarly refined, but the best is saved for last: the two roof terraces are deliriously elegant spots to soak in the views of the cityscape.

One of these terraces, lined with a colonnade of lady-shaped iron lampposts, is attached to the two-Michelin-starred George’s Restaurant — the only one in the city — and is best enjoyed at dusk with a multi-course Mediterranean meal. A second restaurant, Muse, as well as the VI Piano Lounge & Terrace are under the direction of chef Vincenzo Fioravante, and the historic Bidder Bar, in its new incarnation as the extravagantly named Bidder Bar_Bond Point n.0025, features the work of bartender Antonio Boccia.